I really, really, really hated the way that game just ended. But fortunately, unlike most frustrating losses, we need only wait a couple hours to get the bad taste out of our mouth (you know, unless it gets worse).
Here’s the Cubs lineup for Game 2.
Chicago Cubs Lineup:Â
- Ben Zobrist, RF
- Tommy La Stella, 2B
- Kris Bryant, 3B
- Anthony Rizzo, 1B
- Willson Contreras, C
- Ian Happ, LF
- Addison Russell, SS
- Jason Heyward, CF
- Jose Quintana, P
The most notable bit of this lineup is the return of Jason Heyward. Heyward came off the concussion DL before yesterday’s game, but was not in the lineup last night or for the first half of today’s double-header. With the righty, Sal Romano (and his traditional lefty/righty splits), on the mound this evening, it makes as much sense as ever.
Interestingly and relatedly, Ian Happ is playing left field in this one, not Kyle Schwarber. I have to imagine this was planned beforehand, but it is worth pointing out that Happ just went 3-4 with a walk, double, triple, and home run in game 1. So, maybe Joe Maddon just wanted to play the hot hand.
Elsewhere, Willson Contreras jumps back in, Addison Russell moves down in the order, Tommy La Stella covers second base, and Javy Baez gets the night off.
As usual, we’ll have your full Pre-Gamin’ closer to game time (6:10 CT).